Ahead of this season’s annual Paul Britten Memorial for V8 Dirt Modifieds on New Year’s Day at Brisbane’s Archerfield Speedway, honouring one of the sport’s legends, now is a fitting time to take a look back at the continual contribution made to the class by the entire Britten clan.
While the Britten family’s involvement in V8 Dirt Modifieds may have begun with Paul some years ago, with the stalwart initiating countless positive developments in the class during his time as Dirt Modifieds Australia (DMA) President, it wasn’t long before the torch was passed to other family members, including Paul’s wife Jane Britten.
Following Paul’s tragic passing in 2012, many would have assumed it only natural that Jane would take a break from speedway. However, doing just the opposite, it was Paul’s passion for the sport that had also become instilled in Jane, who not only went on to hold the post of DMA Vice President, but was also a chairperson of the National Technical Committee, continuing to support the class today.
With Paul and Jane being amongst those driving the class from behind the scenes, their sons Peter and Kevin did their talking on the track, with their records well and truly speaking for themselves.
An established racer who has made a name for himself throughout America over the past decade, more than holding his own against some of the world’s most talented drivers and paving the way for many other Australian drivers to make their international racing debuts, Peter is looking forward to contesting his dad’s event for the first time in five seasons.
After winning the inaugural Paul Britten Memorial back in 2013, Peter will be looking to repeat history, but it will be his younger brother Kevin who will no doubt prove to be his toughest rival.
The current and four-time Australian Champion, who wrote his name into the history books by clinching each of his four victories consecutively, Kevin has also proven himself on the international stage, and after a disappointing DNF in last season’s Paul Britten Memorial, he’ll certainly be keen for some healthy sibling rivalry this time around.
Despite not racing himself, Paul’s third son Daniel will also be in attendance to support his brothers and honour his dad.
With such rich involvement on many different levels, from committee to competition itself, current DMA President Darren Tindal is pleased to be able to reflect on the Britten family’s contribution to the class and acknowledge all of the ways in which that contribution has helped to better the sport.
“The Britten name is synonymous with the sport of speedway and V8 Dirt Modifieds in particular,” explained Tindal.
“A lot of what Paul implemented many years ago still lives on inside the club today, which is an absolute testament to his dedication, his support and his legacy. We’re extremely thankful to Jane for continuing to support the club over the years, along with Peter and Kevin, who have helped to shape the level of competition as it currently stands.
“The Paul Britten Memorial is a fantastic way to honour Paul and his family and allow everyone the opportunity to see V8 Dirt Modified racing at its best.”
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